S/2880 Antique Treen 18th Century Fruitwood Draper's Ell Rule

An exceptional good quality 18th century tapered fruitwood draper's ell rule, having an end finial and dated 1799. The tapered squared rule is signed Christian Regal and also inscribed Sin? 15 Merz with divided lines for measuring cloth. The other two sides are extensively engraved with leaves, scrolls and hatched areas. The whole has a lovely rich colour and patination.

Until the early 19th century, the ell rule was a common measure for cloth on the continent. In England it was officially 1.25 yards and in Scotland 37.2 inches.

Sold 24¾ in. (63 cm.) Wide
1 in. (2.5 cm.) Deep
Dutch Circa 1799